In this week’s edition, we tackle for the first time a question sent in by a dedicated reader. Before anyone doubts the validity of this question, I most certainly did not make it up and received this inquiry via email from a verified student account. The student (who will remain anonymous) proposed the question “how does [Abby] do such a good job [writing for] the Campus Life section?” While this completely true and legitimate question is flattering, I, just like any good magician or artist, can’t reveal all of my secrets. Therefore, this week’s article will be focused on helping readers improve their own writing skills, including a few tips and tricks I may or may not use while writing for the Etownian.

One popular trick used by writers everywhere is affectionately called “word vomit.” When a topic isn’t particularly engaging, or when a student is having trouble getting started, “word vomiting” may be the strategy to use. Instead of attempting to structure a well-planned essay or article right off the bat, it may be easier to just write whatever comes to mind. While quotes and proper formatting will be important for the final product, using this strategy can often be helpful for writers looking for ideas and phrases to kickstart their pieces.

Another trick which may be useful for a student writing a longer essay or an essay with multiple parts is to reread the question and divide it into parts. Then, when planning, the student can divide their brainstorm into parts and structure the initial planning with bullet points. This could also be combined with the “word vomit” strategy as an extra step in the planning process. In addition, finding and organizing quotes within these bullet points may make it easier to write an essay, especially when the information is consolidated into one document.

These strategies work fine for many, but sometimes the motivation to even start any of these processes just isn’t there. For some, nothing is a better motivator than the last-minute panic of a rapidly approaching deadline. While I’m not an advocate for procrastinating or pushing off assignments until the last minute, sometimes it simply can’t be helped. In a case like this, sometimes taking a break and not writing can actually be the key to a better essay.

For many, good writing takes finding a good rhythm. This can mean finding ways to focus, making time for breaks, and having a good space to start writing in. Sometimes, to focus yourself on the writing, it can be helpful to do something else first. Doing chores, like dishes or cleaning, are sometimes easier than schoolwork; they give the same sense of productivity without the necessary brainpower. This can also help with focusing better on a task: as you do a chore with your hands, your mind may drift to something else. Simply thinking about writing can itself be a way of planning; as you think it over, you may generate more ideas which can spark an interest in your writing topic.

For creative writers and assignments where you have the freedom to choose a topic, always try to pick something you’re passionate about or interested in. Always attempt to find something: a lesson, a fact or a person who interests you. As the writer, it’s your job to capture your readers’ attention—if a topic isn’t interesting to you, try to change that for your readers. The beauty of writing is that you control the tone, the word choice and the information in your writing. By taking care in your writing, you have the power to share and develop your voice in any way you want. However, this takes practice. Pushing yourself in new ways (like joining your local college newspaper team) and trying new writing prompts or tricks is the best way to enjoy what and how you write.

While these tips and tricks may not work for everyone, keeping them in mind may provide inspiration for all readers as you start on your next writing project. As for the original question proposed by one wonderful reader, I have nothing to say except that I do my best to entertain. And, as always, my inbox is always open for anyone looking for advice, inspiration or even just for laughs!